Lagos is preparing to introduce Nigeria’s first-ever set of artificial intelligence (AI) guidelines in the coming weeks.
This was announced by Olatubosun Alake, the Lagos State Commissioner for Innovation, Science, and Technology, during the launch of a new tech company, Dyna.Ai.
Alake clarified that the new guidelines are not enforceable laws but serve as a set of principles aimed at helping developers and companies build AI tools that are ethical, safe, and beneficial to society.
He spoke on creating technologies that people would feel confident allowing their children to use rather than shielding them from.
He also warned that if AI is developed without proper care, it could damage the reputation of both companies and developers, drawing a comparison to the dangers of handling radioactive material.
The goal, he said, is to ensure that innovation does not come at the cost of public trust or safety.
Tokoni Peter Igoin, the special adviser to the president on digital matters, backed the initiative, stating that the federal government is committed to promoting innovation that protects people’s data and enhances digital security.
Tomas Skoumal, president of Dyna.Ai, praised the upcoming guidelines and reaffirmed Nigeria’s importance as the company’s entry point into the African market.
He said Dyna.Ai aims to invest in local talent, create job opportunities, and support the region’s digital growth.
With AI being increasingly used in areas such as finance, cybersecurity, and human resources, these guidelines reflect Lagos’s efforts to stay ahead of the curve.
By taking the lead in setting standards, the state aims to strike a balance between innovation and responsibility, thereby setting a positive example for the rest of the country.
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